The business lunch is something that is near and dear to my heart. Some people love them, others might dread them, but I believe that, when done right, a business lunch can be one of the most strategic uses of your time. It's not just about the food, although that’s certainly a perk—especially here in Dubai where the culinary scene can be extraordinary. They are occasions where deals are made, relationships are built, and ideas are born. Whether with colleagues, clients, customers, authorities, taking the time to sit down and break bread offers both a change of scenery and an opportunity to connect on a more personal level. Plus, as an entrepreneur who traded his corporate credit card for his freedom,  you can enjoy quality culinary experiences affordably, making it possible to indulge without breaking the bank.

Not all business lunches are created equal. They can range from productive, to futile, and sometimes even just awkward. You don’t just turn up to a business lunch. There is a dance to navigate and it starts with understanding the purpose.

What's the goal? Are you aiming to build a new relationship, maintain an existing one, or brainstorm new ideas? Know who’s at the table. Do your homework—review their LinkedIn profile, Google their recent activities, and if possible, learn a bit about their personal life. Do they have kids? Shared hobbies or interests? These details can be great conversation starters and help you steer the discussion in the right direction. Have a clear agenda— you don’t want to be that person who wanders aimlessly through a meal, only to order your coffee and realize that you’ve accomplished nothing. No, a business lunch in Dubai is about results-driven dining—getting things done, while enjoying some great food and drinks.

Of course, there are some common obstacles to consider. For one, never underestimate the power of the setting. Choosing the right restaurant can make or break the experience. The Dubai lunch scene is vast, catering to every possible taste and dietary preference. So, if you’re in charge of picking the venue, make sure it’s a place that suits everyone’s needs. In my experience, a couple of decent options will go a long way in keeping everyone happy, and be considerate towards the vegetarians.

What about alcohol? Personally, a glass  of wine or a beer adds a little extrra ‘zing’ with close colleagues or friends, but when I am meeting someone for the first time or just starting a business relationship, I think it’s best to play it safe. Cultural appropriation plays an important part here, be respectful.

When it comes to paying the general rule is that the host or person who requested the meeting picks up the tab. Personally, I keep it simple: I always assume that I’ll pay, and always offer to cover the bill—unless it's with old friends or partners, where it usually just sorts itself out naturally. I dine a lot more with fellow entrepreneurs and startups these days, so consious that there arent T&E budgets set against four courses at Amazonico on a Thursday afternoon, like there used to be in the corporate world.

A successful business lunch doesn’t end when you leave the restaurant; it’s about what happens afterward—whether it’s a quick email recap, scheduling a follow-up meeting, or even a flattering Instagram tag. These gestures can work wonders in strengthening bonds through shared experiences, making people feel closer. In Dubai’s highly relationship-driven business environment, these small actions can make a significant difference.

If you are an operator what should you consider? Variety in items, easy on the pocket, and light on the stomach are just a few key elements to get the business lunches right. Speed of service is crucial—no one wants to be stuck waiting forever for their meal. I say if you’re a business lunch for more than 90 minutes, its too long.

From Japanese bento boxes to four -course French meals, Dubai offers a variety of options that cater to every palate and budget. Take, for example, Eugène Eugène, where you can enjoy a selection of modern French dishes that are served quickly—perfect for the busy professional. I went there last month and the lamb cutlets were divine. My only mistake was to purchase a couple of Leffe bottles which cost more than the meal itself!

Another favorite of mine is Amaya, where you can dine with full views of the Burj Khalifa while enjoying a three-course set menu that includes a broad selection from tuna tartar to pizza and risotto. And if you’re in the mood for something chic, La Cantine Du Faubourg offers a premium business lunch deal with options like beef carpaccio and roasted sea bream, alsoa great spot for taking the wife out on a weekday.

BOCA in DIFC has always has a piece of my heart. Not necessarily for their business lunches, but their food in general. Their team there take a lot of pride in their culinary efforts and their sustainabiltiy and ESG agenda is strong, which makes me even more of an advocate. If you want a little more flair, or you are trying to impress clients with iconic brands, you cant go wrong with Robertos, Zuma, LPM or Amazonico.

In a city as dynamic and relationship-driven as Dubai, the business lunch is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re building new connections, strengthening existing ones, or simply taking a break from the office. With such amazing offers on your doorstep, it’s clear that the business lunch is here to stay. And as for me, I’ll be lunching for many more years to come. Bon appétit!

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